Durham police issued a warning regarding a group of online predators who are preying on children, coercing them into criminal activities. The network, known as “The Com,” targets children and teenagers aged 8 to 17 through grooming and manipulation tactics. These offenders establish trust, create secrecy through fear or shame, and pressure victims into engaging in harmful activities, as stated by the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS).
The criminal acts may include coercing minors to participate in unlawful activities like online attacks and hoax 911 calls, also known as swatting. Following a recent swatting incident at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School in Oshawa, the police are investigating potential links to this network.
“The Com” may also manipulate victims into sharing inappropriate content, engaging in self-harm, or directing harm toward others or animals. Detectives emphasize that children could be coerced through threats such as doxing or swatting.
The network targets children across various online platforms, including Discord, Telegram, Snapchat, Roblox, Minecraft, Twitch, and Steam. Parents are advised to monitor their children’s online behavior, particularly looking for encrypted apps, increased secretive device use, mood changes, or declining academic performance. It is crucial for parents to discuss the risks of sharing personal information online and regularly review their child’s online activities.
According to Amarnath Amarasingam, an expert from Queen’s University, “The Com” comprises roughly 3,000 different groups engaging in various activities, from cybercrimes to exploitation and violence-oriented subcultures. Amarasingam suggests that the police alert aims to raise awareness of warning signs not only for parents but also for teachers, pediatricians, and even veterinarians. Monitoring the content children view on social media platforms is essential beyond just setting screen time limits.
Parents are encouraged to contact the Durham police non-emergency line if they suspect any concerning activities and to save relevant information for investigation purposes.
